A jazz world woven from innate vocal talent and distinctive timing.
The voices of female jazz vocalists possess a mysterious allure that stirs the listener’s heart.
From legendary divas who captivate with silky phrasing and lustrous tone, to young artists who pursue new forms of expression through bold reinterpretations, we invite you into the realm of female singers cherished across generations.
They spin the deep emotions embedded in jazz through the delicate expressiveness unique to women.
Encountering such gemlike voices will surely enrich your musical experience.
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Captivating female jazz singers who color the history of jazz. Recommended jazz vocals from around the world (1–10)
Lullaby of BirdlandSarah Vaughan
Sarah Vaughan is counted as one of the three great female jazz vocalists.
Her powerful sense of swing and the beautiful vibrato that breathes life into songs continue to influence many jazz singers to this day.
Her presence is truly worthy of being called the Queen of Jazz.
You’d Be So Nice To Come Home ToHelen Merrill
Helen Merrill, whose husky voice has earned her the nickname “the Sigh of New York,” is captivating.
Her rendition of “You’d Be So Nice to Come Home To” on the album Helen Merrill with Clifford Brown is especially famous and was a particularly popular number in Japan.
A Japanophile, she has given many concerts in Japan over the course of her career.
MistyElla Fitzgerald
Who gets chosen when we talk about the “Big Three female jazz vocalists” varies a bit from person to person, but alongside Sarah Vaughan, the name that invariably comes up is the legendary jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald.
Though she lived a life full of hardship, her otherworldly vocal prowess will never fade.
From The StartLaufey
Laufey, the Icelandic artist, creates music that lets you sink into the feeling of watching a beautiful short film.
Her sound—where a deep, warm voice reminiscent of her beloved Ella Fitzgerald blends brilliantly with the sparkle of contemporary pop—is unforgettable after just one listen.
Grounded in jazz and classical training, her music strikes a perfect balance: nostalgic yet never dated.
With her striking presence singing while holding a cello, Laufey’s songs are sure to open a new door into the world of jazz.
I Love You PorgyBillie Holiday
Billie Holiday, the female jazz singer also known by the nickname “Lady Day.” Despite her illustrious career, including collaborations with legendary jazz giants such as Benny Goodman and Duke Ellington, she endured many hardships.
Yet her voice transcended the jazz scene and influenced countless artists.
Cry Me A RiverJulie London
Julie London’s career began not as a jazz singer, but as an actress who broke through thanks to her beauty.
She didn’t achieve great success as an actress and once retired, but later returned to the spotlight as a jazz vocalist and found success as a singer.
Her husky voice, often described as “smoky,” was popular in Japan as well.
Ain’t Got No, I Got LifeNina Simone
Nina Simone is recognized as a great singer whose influence extends beyond the jazz scene.
In addition to her achievements as a jazz vocalist, she was also an activist in the Civil Rights Movement, earning deep respect from Black musicians and artists.
Of course, her musicality—embracing a wide range of genres—is also a major part of her appeal.